Linn Ninkas aktiv vs. not?


Would like to hear a few comments on whether the aktiv option is really that much better. Could the money be spent better? They sound alright now with a single LK-85 and I imagine the bass goes deeper but what else? Can't do the a-b test where I am so I'd like to hear through others' ears. I keep hearing about crossover inefficiency and heat etc. but that was from the seller.... so..?
stuartbranson
Hi,

I currently have my ninka's set up passive but bi-wired with one LK 85 amplifier. I've often thought about the same question you have. Each time I think about it I go down to my listening room and put in a favorite CD, sit back, and just enjoy the music. It sounds very good as it is. I don't think there is any doubt that going active will make significant improvements. Linn is a tremendous company! Just like anything else, when you have the money and are comfortable spending it go for it. Until then, don't forget that the passive mode is still excellent! Other less expensive improvements include upgrading to the polymer bases and bi-wiring the speakers. I personally feel like source reproduction is the most important factor in any system and depending on your current source that may be a better improvement in the short and long term. Having said that I also plan to go ACTIVE at some point in time but will probably wait until my other components are up to par. Enjoy!!
Exactly the same boat, Chetiar. Have upgraded the stands and spikes, bi-wired and lots of other tweaks.
I have owned a few Linn speakers (AV-5140, Keltiks, Nexus & Keilidh) going aktive, except for the Keltiks that are aktive only, will be a great improvement. The bass output will extend another octave, details in the music will sharpen and the system will gain available power to drive the speakers. The crossover use about 30% of the power to drive them. But you must listen it yourself. Go to your Linn
dealer and ask for a demo, one channel aktive and the other
passive, easily done with the Ninkas plates. You will be surprised. As far as I know only Linn and Meridian offer such systems. Hector
Thanks for all the replies. I guess I'll start looking around for the amp and cards.
Dear Stuart,
I have a couple LK-140's in AKTIV mode. All I can say is "GO AVTIV". The sound is detailed, clean, and smooth. I went from one to two amps...and then on to getting AKTIV. I too, was on the fence some about it until last spring. I got to meet a LINN engineer who worked on the KLOUT. I asked him if I should get a KLOUT or just go aktiv. He said go akitv and you will really be impressed. I did, and I am....Hope this helps you some. I would stick with their cables and interconnects also...I made the "rounds" and went back to them.